Author: Hannah Friedman

Hannah is a writer with a focus on holistic wellness. Her work explores post-traumatic growth and mental health as an intersectional issue. In addition to writing for Recovery.com, she’s composed meditations for the NatureSpace app, articles for the Cardea app, and essays on the connection between physical and mental health. In her private practice as a massage therapist, she works primarily with LGBTQIA+ clients and survivors of assault.
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Unplug From Gaming Addiction and Reconnect With Real Life

In moderation, video games can be a great way to unwind. But gaming can take over your life. If it goes from a casual hobby to an all-consuming part of your routine, you might need support to get back on track. And there are many ways to approach recovery. You can even go to rehab for gaming addiction.

Treatment Options for Gaming Addiction

Addiction doesn’t always include taking drugs—it can also be behavioral. In fact, some of the best therapies for gaming addiction can also treat other types of addiction. ((Torres-Rodríguez, Alexandra, et al. “The Treatment of Internet Gaming Disorder: A Brief Overview of the PIPATIC Program.” International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction, vol. 16, no. 4, 2018, pp. 1000–15. PubMed Central, https://doi.org/10.1007/s11469-017-9825-0.))

Adventure Therapy Gives You Other Outlets

Adventure therapy can be exciting. During treatment, you’ll explore the great outdoors and learn new skills. This popular therapy for gaming addiction ((Pilar, Elmar. Computer Game Addiction -Symptoms, Treatment, & FAQs What Is Computer Game Addiction. www.academia.edu, https://www.academia.edu/31271724/Computer_Game_Addiction_Symptoms_Treatment_and_FAQs_What_is_computer_game_addiction. Accessed 12 Dec. 2022.)) also invites you to connect with other people. By solving problems together, you can learn to support each other in person—not just through a screen. Wilderness therapy, in particular, offers important benefits during recovery from gaming addiction:

  • Treatment includes an extended period of time (usually 30 days) away from the game.
  • Outdoor activities reinforce different strengths than video gaming.
  • Spending time outside can become a healthier hobby.

This approach invites you to heal and have fun at the same time. As you rock climb, kayak, or hike, you’ll also develop greater self-awareness and confidence.

Change How You Think About Gaming With Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a common method for treating gaming addiction. ((Király, Orsolya, et al. “Policy Responses to Problematic Video Game Use: A Systematic Review of Current Measures and Future Possibilities.” Journal of Behavioral Addictions, vol. 7, no. 3, pp. 503–17. PubMed Central, https://doi.org/10.1556/2006.6.2017.050. Accessed 12 Dec. 2022.)) It can also treat people with internet addiction. ((Kuss, Daria J., and Olatz Lopez-Fernandez. “Internet Addiction and Problematic Internet Use: A Systematic Review of Clinical Research.” World Journal of Psychiatry, vol. 6, no. 1, Mar. 2016, pp. 143–76. PubMed Central, https://doi.org/10.5498/wjp.v6.i1.143.)) During each session, you and your therapist will talk through your most frequent thought patterns. Then, they’ll teach you practical ways to cope with those thoughts. For example, you might practice these skills:

  • identifying negative impacts gaming has on your life
  • exercising self-restraint
  • communicating with other people and building relationships

The skills you learn in therapy will help you manage your symptoms. But that’s not the only reason CBT is effective for treating gaming addiction. ((Kuss, Daria J., and Olatz Lopez-Fernandez. “Internet Addiction and Problematic Internet Use: A Systematic Review of Clinical Research.” World Journal of Psychiatry, vol. 6, no. 1, Mar. 2016, p. 143. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, https://doi.org/10.5498/wjp.v6.i1.143.)) This therapy also treats the underlying causes of gaming addiction, like impulse control.

Reconnect With Loved Ones in Family Therapy

Gaming addiction can damage your relationships. But the reverse is also true: an unhealthy family environment is a risk factor for gaming addiction. ((Torres-Rodríguez, Alexandra, et al. “The Treatment of Internet Gaming Disorder: A Brief Overview of the PIPATIC Program.” International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction, vol. 16, no. 4, 2018, pp. 1000–15. PubMed Central, https://doi.org/10.1007/s11469-017-9825-0.)) If that’s your experience, family therapy might be an important part of recovery.

Data shows that family therapy can improve gaming addiction symptoms. ((Zajac, Kristyn, et al. “Treatments for Internet Gaming Disorder and Internet Addiction: A Systematic Review.” Psychology of Addictive Behaviors : Journal of the Society of Psychologists in Addictive Behaviors, vol. 31, no. 8, Dec. 2017, pp. 979–94. PubMed Central, https://doi.org/10.1037/adb0000315.)) Specifically, this treatment lowers the time patients spend gaming or just being online. It also helps family members understand why their loved one has a gaming addiction. That makes it easier for them to support the person through recovery.

Access Motivational Interviewing Online or in Person

Motivational interviewing (MI) helps patients define their own reasons for wanting to recover. When the desire to heal comes from within, committing to treatment gets easier. MI is a common treatment for gaming addiction. ((Zajac, Kristyn, et al. “Treatments for Internet Gaming Disorder and Internet Addiction: A Systematic Review.” Psychology of Addictive Behaviors : Journal of the Society of Psychologists in Addictive Behaviors, vol. 31, no. 8, Dec. 2017, pp. 979–94. PubMed Central, https://doi.org/10.1037/adb0000315.))

You can access MI in a variety of ways, such as in therapy, from another clinician, or even remotely. In fact, some forms of online MI are specifically designed to treat gaming addiction. ((Dieris-Hirche, Jan, et al. “Effects of an Online-Based Motivational Intervention to Reduce Problematic Internet Use and Promote Treatment Motivation in Internet Gaming Disorder and Internet Use Disorder (OMPRIS): Study Protocol for a Randomised Controlled Trial.” BMJ Open, vol. 11, no. 8, Aug. 2021, p. e045840. PubMed Central, https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2020-045840.)) Data shows this type of treatment can be hugely effective.

Find Offline Community in Support Groups

Gaming might give you a sense of community. But that community won’t necessarily protect you from addiction. On the contrary, it might even make your symptoms worse. Addiction support groups offer a healthy alternative.

If the 12 Steps resonate with you, Gaming Addicts Anonymous might be a good place to start. However, faith-based recovery isn’t a good fit for everyone. In that case, you can consider non-12-Step groups that welcome people with any type of addiction, like SMART Recovery. But even if you don’t join a support group, it’s important to start building relationships with people who understand what you’re going through.

What Is Gaming Addiction?

When compared to other addictions, gaming is relatively new. Perhaps because of this, there are some common misconceptions about gaming addiction. ((Fu, Daniel. “A Look at Gaming Culture and Gaming Related Problems: From a Gamer’s Perspective.” Center Report, Dept. of Psychology, UCLA. http://smhp.psych.ucla.edu/pdfdocs/gaming.pdf)) But if you’re showing the symptoms of addiction, it’s important to take them seriously.

Gaming addiction is a preoccupation with gaming that interferes with all other parts of your life. ((Kim, Dongil, et al. “Adolescent Internet Gaming Addiction and Personality Characteristics by Game Genre.” PLoS ONE, vol. 17, no. 2, Feb. 2022, p. e0263645. PubMed Central, https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0263645.)) People with this condition may lie about how much they play, lose interest in other activities, and develop sleep issues. You can even experience withdrawal symptoms, like cravings, when you try to take a break.

Who Is at Risk for Gaming Addiction?

Addiction doesn’t happen in a vacuum. That’s true for drug use, gambling, and any other unhealthy behavior. And there are certain factors that increase your risk of gaming addiction: ((Torres-Rodríguez, Alexandra, et al. “The Treatment of Internet Gaming Disorder: A Brief Overview of the PIPATIC Program.” International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction, vol. 16, no. 4, 2018, pp. 1000–15. PubMed Central, https://doi.org/10.1007/s11469-017-9825-0.))

  • genetic predisposition, including a family history of addiction
  • psychological issues, like low self-esteem
  • environmental factors, like family conflict
  • stress, including grief or major life changes

Additionally, some demographics are more likely to develop video game addiction. ((TAŞ, Besra. “School Attachment and Video Game Addiction of Adolescents with Divorced vs. Married Parents.” TOJET: The Turkish Online Journal of Educational Technology – April 2019, volume 18 issue 2. https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1211160.pdf)) Specifically, young people and boys may be at a greater risk.

Gaming Addiction and Other Mental Health Issues

Many people with video game addiction have co-occurring disorders, ((Kim, Dongil, et al. “Adolescent Internet Gaming Addiction and Personality Characteristics by Game Genre.” PLoS ONE, vol. 17, no. 2, Feb. 2022, p. e0263645. PubMed Central, https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0263645.)) like anxiety or depression. Some of the most common co-occurring mental health issues ((Torres-Rodríguez, Alexandra, et al. “The Treatment of Internet Gaming Disorder: A Brief Overview of the PIPATIC Program.” International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction, vol. 16, no. 4, 2018, pp. 1000–15. PubMed Central, https://doi.org/10.1007/s11469-017-9825-0.)) include the following:

  • anxiety, especially social anxiety
  • ADHD
  • depression
  • certain personality disorders
  • autism

If you have more than one diagnosis, it’s important to give each one the attention it deserves. Often that means getting treatment for co-occurring disorders. This approach may give you more insight into your complex emotional experience.

What Leads to Gaming Addiction?

No matter who you are, or what risk factors you face, 2 types of games make addiction more likely: ((Kim, Dongil, et al. “Adolescent Internet Gaming Addiction and Personality Characteristics by Game Genre.” PLoS ONE, vol. 17, no. 2, Feb. 2022, p. e0263645. PubMed Central, https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0263645.))

  1. massively multiplayer online role-playing games (MMORPGs), like World of Warcraft, and
  2. first-person shooters, like Overwatch.

Different games also correlate with different addiction symptoms. For example, people who play first-person shooters tend to be more impulsive. But people with addiction to MMORPGs are often more extroverted, even if gaming gets in the way of in-person relationships. It’s also worth noting that not everyone who plays MMORPGs or first-person shooters is at risk of gaming addiction. Why you’re playing matters just as much as what you’re playing.

The Need for Escape

Some people use games to avoid real-life issues. ((Wang, Shuai, et al. “Escapism-Based Motivation Affected the Psychological Performances of High-Risk Internet Gaming Disorder Individuals.” Frontiers in Psychiatry, vol. 13, Mar. 2022, p. 855631. PubMed Central, https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2022.855631.)) This is most common with MMORPGs, ((Kim, Dongil, et al. “Adolescent Internet Gaming Addiction and Personality Characteristics by Game Genre.” PLoS ONE, vol. 17, no. 2, Feb. 2022, p. e0263645. PubMed Central, https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0263645.)) in which players take on an in-game persona. And most of the time, your character faces less complicated issues than you do. Fighting a dragon is easy once you’re good at the game. And it has a straightforward outcome: win or lose. Either way, you’re still the main character. Most of the time, real life is much messier than that.

Many escapist gamers have low emotional and impulse control. ((Mehmet Emin Turani. “Empathy and Video Game Addiction in Adolescents: Serial Mediation by Psychological Resilience and Life Satisfaction.” International Journal of Progressive Education, Volume 17 Number 4, 2021. https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1308639.pdf)) As a result, it can be hard to manage the stress of daily life. Instead, people turn to fictional worlds that reward impulsive behavior. But this just compounds the issue. If this is your experience, you might practice emotion regulation skills during recovery.

Relying on Video Games for Community

Gaming can fulfill players’ need for connection, ((Kim, Dongil, et al. “Adolescent Internet Gaming Addiction and Personality Characteristics by Game Genre.” PLoS ONE, vol. 17, no. 2, Feb. 2022, p. e0263645. PubMed Central, https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0263645.)) especially if you don’t have many strong relationships in real life. It might even feel easier for you to talk to people when you’re behind a screen. Studies show that people with gaming addiction feel closer to other people during online interactions than they do in person.

Over time, this can become a vicious cycle. First, you reach out online by gaming. But as your addiction develops, you may lose interest in your real-world relationships. And as you let go of those friendships, it can feel like gaming is your primary source of connection. In treatments like wilderness therapy, patients relearn how to build sustainable relationships.

Instant Gratification

Video games are meant to be engaging. ((Söylemez, A. (2021). The prediction role of delay of gratification on
game addiction in children. Malaysian Online Journal of Educational
Technology, 9(2), 67-75.
http://dx.doi.org/10.52380/mojet.2021.9.2.255)) Game developers want you to continue playing. That’s one reason they offer so many rewards. Leveling up gives you instant access to new skills, with no studying required. This pattern appeals to people who feel unsuccessful outside of gameplay. Research shows a relationship between gaming addiction and low self-esteem. ((Kim, Dongil, et al. “Adolescent Internet Gaming Addiction and Personality Characteristics by Game Genre.” PLoS ONE, vol. 17, no. 2, Feb. 2022, p. e0263645. PubMed Central, https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0263645.))

Doing well in a game can give you a sense of accomplishment. It may also earn you the respect of fellow gamers, which can boost your self-image. However, these achievements don’t prepare you for the hard work of building a meaningful life. There’s no loot drop after you deal with a breakup, or retake a failed exam. But often, those experiences are necessary in order for you to grow as a person.

A Sense of Purpose

Unlike most areas of life, video games have clear storylines. Even when you’re exploring an open world, you usually have a specific quest in mind. If you feel lost and driftless when you’re offline, gaming addiction can satisfy your need for a personal mission. ((Carmona, Jayson. “Escaping the Escapism: A Grounded Theory of the Addiction and Recovery Process in Online Video Gaming.” The Qualitative Report, Volume 26, Number 7, Article 5. https://nsuworks.nova.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=4643&context=tqr))

This can be true for people without clear goals, and also for those with lofty ambitions. Most of the time, the stakes are lower in a boss fight than they would be if you applied to law school. And you might feel more confident about winning the game than you do about achieving your dreams. But if you let gaming take up too much of your time, it becomes an obstacle in its own right.

Level up Into the Real World

Gaming might feel like a great adventure. To be good at it, you need dedication and creativity. But as you build on those skills, you may find that you need a more complex challenge. With the right support, you can find what you’re looking for in real life.

Browse our list of rehabs for gaming addictions to learn about their pricing, treatment options, and more.

Reviewed by Lisa Misquith

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Beyond the Stigma: Recovery From Personality Disorders

Yes, you can find treatment for a personality disorder. These are serious conditions, but they’re not monsters under the bed. Your personality is not broken.

Data shows that there are many effective ways to treat these mental health issues. In a rehab program for personality disorders, you’ll have access to a variety of therapies. Prepare for recovery by learning about your options.

Overcoming the Stigma Around Personality Disorders

As a group, personality disorders are generally misunderstood. ((Sheehan, Lindsay, et al. “The Stigma of Personality Disorders.” Current Psychiatry Reports, vol. 18, no. 1, Jan. 2016, p. 11. PubMed, https://doi.org/10.1007/s11920-015-0654-1.)) And unfortunately, it’s not just the public who carry ignorant views of these diagnoses. Some healthcare providers also have harmful ideas about personality disorders. As a result, stigma is often a barrier to treatment. ((Sheehan, Lindsay. “The Stigma of Personality Disorders.” Curr Psychiatry Rep (2016) 18: 11. BPD Community. https://www.bpdcommunity.com.au/static/uploads/files/2016-sheehan-the-stigma-of-pds-wfcdbbajayss.pdf))

For Amanda Wang, living with borderline personality disorder (BPD) was overwhelming: ((BPD Profile: Struggles, Breakdown & Breakthrough. www.youtube.com, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B3t8s2JvVHg. Accessed 11 Dec. 2022.))

“I felt like something was wrong with me. It would start out with something small and it would escalate to thinking that I was probably the worst person in the world and that I wasn’t good enough.”

And without unbiased professional advice, it can be hard to plan your recovery.

So it’s understandable if you’re hesitant to seek help. But facing your condition head-on can empower you to heal. In fact, long-term studies show that remission is common for people with personality disorders, ((Pickersgill, Martyn. “How Personality Became Treatable: The Mutual Constitution of Clinical and Mental Health Law.” Social Studies of Science, vol. 43, no. 1, Feb. 2013, pp. 30–53. PubMed Central, https://doi.org/10.1177/0306312712457722.)) even in the most severe cases. Specialized therapies reduce your symptoms, improve your quality of life, and make it easier to navigate the world.

Not all therapists are qualified to support your healing journey. And it might take a while to find the right provider. Set yourself up for success by researching ahead of time, so you know what to look for in a therapist.

Effective Treatments for Personality Disorders

People with personality disorders rarely start treatment ((Lawton, Erin M., and Thomas F. Oltmanns. “Personality Pathology and Mental Health Treatment Seeking in a Community Sample of Older Adults.” Personality and Mental Health, vol. 7, no. 3, Aug. 2013, p. 10.1002/pmh.1198. PubMed Central, https://doi.org/10.1002/pmh.1198.)) because of those issues alone. More often, patients first enter recovery for addiction or another mental health issue. In that case, you might get diagnosed with a personality disorder once you’re already in rehab.

Once you begin healing, consistency is the key to treatment. ((Pickersgill, Martyn. “How Personality Became Treatable: The Mutual Constitution of Clinical and Mental Health Law.” Social Studies of Science, vol. 43, no. 1, Feb. 2013, pp. 30–53. PubMed Central, https://doi.org/10.1177/0306312712457722.)) With talk therapy and medication, many people make slow, steady progress. Then, for some people, personality disorder symptoms simply vanish in middle age. ((Oltmanns, Thomas F., and Steve Balsis. “Personality Disorders in Later Life: Questions about the Measurement, Course, and Impact of Disorders.” Annual Review of Clinical Psychology, vol. 7, Apr. 2011, pp. 321–49. PubMed Central, https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-clinpsy-090310-120435.))

To find the right type of therapy, you first need a formal evaluation from a therapist. They’ll assess the intensity of your emotions and your relationships, and ask about other symptoms. Then, with a diagnosis in hand, you and your care team can consider a range of treatment options.

Transference-Focused Psychotherapy Helps You Build Relationships

Transference-focused psychotherapy (TFP) helps you improve your relationships. ((Transference-Focused Psychotherapy Program | Columbia University Center for Psychoanalytic Training and Research. https://www.psychoanalysis.columbia.edu/train/psychotherapy-programs/transference-focused-psychotherapy-program. Accessed 11 Dec. 2022.)) Patients do this by practicing interpersonal skills with a therapist. In that dynamic, you can learn to relate to others’ emotions more easily. This empowers you to build stronger, more sustainable relationships. TFP can treat BPD ((Kernberg, Otto F., et al. “Transference Focused Psychotherapy: Overview and Update.” The International Journal of Psychoanalysis, vol. 89, no. 3, 2008, p. 601. www.academia.edu, https://www.academia.edu/330551/Transference_Focused_Psychotherapy_Overview_and_Update.)) and narcissistic personality disorder, among other conditions.

Most people attend about 2-3 sessions per week for 1-3 years, and get additional support outside of therapy. Your relationship with your therapist is central to this process. By observing the way you act toward them, they’ll learn how you approach other dynamics. Then, they can help you develop healthier behavioral patterns.

Schema-Focused Therapy Soothes Your Inner Child

In schema-focused therapy (ST), you learn how to comfort yourself. ((Tan, Yeow May, et al. “Schema Therapy for Borderline Personality Disorder: A Qualitative Study of Patients’ Perceptions.” PLoS ONE, vol. 13, no. 11, Nov. 2018, p. e0206039. PubMed Central, https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0206039.)) It’s based on the idea that personality disorders result from childhood trauma. Patients recover by soothing their inner child. ST is especially effective for people with BPD ((Dr. K. Thomaes, MD PhD. “Prediction and Outcome Study in PTSD and Personality disorder.” https://clinicaltrials.gov/ProvidedDocs/53/NCT03833453/Prot_SAP_000.pdf)) and anxious personality disorders, like avoidant personality disorder.

For example, many people with personality disorders were abandoned as children. ((Mahari, A. J. The Legacy of Abandonment In Borderline Personality Disorder. Phoenix Rising Publications, 2006.)) That trauma can cause an intense fear of abandonment in adulthood. ST teaches these patients how to manage that fear. You and your therapist might roleplay a conversation with a parent who abandoned you in the past. You’ll use specific coping skills to regulate your feelings, and still express yourself in a healthy way. This empowers patients to meet their own needs.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy Teaches Emotion Regulation

Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) teaches you how to process intense emotions healthily. Research shows that DBT reduces symptoms of several personality disorders. ((May, Jennifer M., et al. “Dialectical Behavior Therapy as Treatment for Borderline Personality Disorder.” The Mental Health Clinician, vol. 6, no. 2, Mar. 2016, pp. 62–67. PubMed Central, https://doi.org/10.9740/mhc.2016.03.62.)) Specifically, it helps patients improve impulse control, mindfulness, and emotion regulation.

This is a very practical approach to personality disorder treatment. Treatment includes both individual and group sessions. You’ll go through assignments from a textbook, complete homework, and share what you learn. In some ways, DBT is more like a class than it is like group therapy.

DBT teaches you to accept yourself, ((Chapman, Alexander L. “Dialectical Behavior Therapy.” Psychiatry (Edgmont), vol. 3, no. 9, Sept. 2006, pp. 62–68. PubMed Central, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2963469/.)) intense emotions and all. You can’t hate yourself into recovery. Instead, patients cultivate the desire to heal because they deserve to be well.

Mentalization-Based Therapy Lets You Understand Others’ Feelings

Mentalization is related to empathy. ((Schnell, Knut. “Functional relations of empathy and mentalizing: An fMRI study on the neural basis of cognitive empathy.” Elsevier. https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Brigitte-Konradt/publication/45799025_Schnell_K_Bluschke_S_Konradt_B_Walter_H_Functional_relations_of_empathy_and_mentalizing_an_fMRI_study_on_the_neural_basis_of_cognitive_empathy_Neuroimage_54_1743-1754/links/5d63dbb3299bf1f70b0dfece/Schnell-K-Bluschke-S-Konradt-B-Walter-H-Functional-relations-of-empathy-and-mentalizing-an-fMRI-study-on-the-neural-basis-of-cognitive-empathy-Neuroimage-54-1743-1754.pdf)) According to the American Psychological Association, mentalizing ((APA Dictionary of Psychology. https://dictionary.apa.org/. Accessed 11 Dec. 2022.)) is “the ability to understand one’s own and others’ mental states.” This lets you understand why people do what they do, and what effect those actions will have.

Mentalization based therapy (MBT) ((BATEMAN, ANTHONY, and PETER FONAGY. “Mentalization Based Treatment for Borderline Personality Disorder.” World Psychiatry, vol. 9, no. 1, Feb. 2010, pp. 11–15. PubMed Central, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2816926/.)) teaches people how to mentalize in a balanced way. Studies prove MBT can reduce the symptoms of BPD ((Vogt, Katharina Sophie, and Paul Norman. “Is Mentalization‐based Therapy Effective in Treating the Symptoms of Borderline Personality Disorder? A Systematic Review.” Psychology and Psychotherapy, vol. 92, no. 4, Dec. 2019, pp. 441–64. PubMed Central, https://doi.org/10.1111/papt.12194.)) and other mental health conditions. Empathy is especially hard for people with narcissistic personality disorders, ((Gabbard, Glen O., and Holly Crisp‐Han. “The Many Faces of Narcissism.” World Psychiatry, vol. 15, no. 2, June 2016, pp. 115–16. PubMed Central, https://doi.org/10.1002/wps.20323.)) so mentalization is an important skill to learn in treatment.

In MBT, patients practice mentalization during both group and 1:1 sessions. You might use specific events from your real life as examples. You’ll describe a situation—say, a recent argument with a friend. And your therapist will help you imagine how your friend might have felt. They’ll also help you identify and regulate your own feelings. These skills can improve your relationships with other people, and with yourself.

Medication Can Manage Symptoms

Currently, there are no medications specifically designed to treat personality disorders. ((“What are Personality Disorders?” American Psychiatric Association (APA). https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/personality-disorders/what-are-personality-disorders)) Despite this, your doctor might recommend a prescription to control your symptoms. Antidepressants and mood stabilizers are common treatments. But it’s important to note that personality disorders aren’t purely neurochemical. ((Ma, Guorong, et al. “Genetic and Neuroimaging Features of Personality Disorders: State of the Art.” Neuroscience Bulletin, vol. 32, no. 3, Apr. 2016, pp. 286–306. PubMed Central, https://doi.org/10.1007/s12264-016-0027-8.)) On the contrary, experts think some of them may have environmental causes. As a result, it’s unlikely that medication alone will “fix” your personality disorder. You might also need to make some major behavioral changes. These complex conditions can impact every aspect of your life.

What Is a Personality Disorder?

Personality disorders affect more than your thoughts and feelings ((Personality Disorders: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000939.htm. Accessed 11 Dec. 2022.))—they also impact relationships. Even though they’re highly stigmatized, almost 10% of adults in the U.S. have a personality disorder. ((“Personality Disorders.” National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/personality-disorders. Accessed 11 Dec. 2022.))

People with personality disorders have intense emotions, ((Fariba, Kamron A., et al. “Personality Disorder.” StatPearls, StatPearls Publishing, 2022. PubMed, http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK556058/.)) which can lead to unhealthy behaviors. Your mental health may interfere with your relationships, schoolwork, career, and more. And because people with personality disorders are so sensitive to stress ((“Personality Disorder.” Mental Health America, https://www.mhanational.org/conditions/personality-disorder. Accessed 11 Dec. 2022.)) that adversity can make your symptoms worse.

There’s some debate about when these conditions develop. Some experts say that personality disorders appear in adolescence. ((Adshead, Gwen, et al. “Personality Disorder in Adolescence.” Advances in Psychiatric Treatment, vol. 18, no. 2, Mar. 2012, pp. 109–18. Cambridge University Press, https://doi.org/10.1192/apt.bp.110.008623.)) Others describe symptoms during childhood. And some caution against diagnosis before patients reach adulthood. At any age, these are serious conditions.

Scientists categorize personality disorders into 3 different clusters:

Cluster A Personality Disorders

People with cluster A personality disorders ((Module 13: Personality Disorders – Fundamentals of Psychological Disorders. https://opentext.wsu.edu/abnormal-psych/chapter/module-13-personality-disorders/. Accessed 11 Dec. 2022.)) share a few traits. Most people with these conditions are socially withdrawn. You might actively mistrust the people around you, or you might just prefer solitude. You may also have a hard time expressing how you feel. Cluster A includes 3 diagnoses:

  • Schizoid personality disorder (ScPD): People with ScPD have a hard time showing emotion, and prefer to be alone most of the time. They rarely have relationships outside of family.
  • Paranoid personality disorder (PPD): The main characteristic of PPD is a distrust of others. This condition makes it hard to build or maintain relationships.
  • Schizotypal personality disorder (STPD): People with STPD may have strong superstitions, or think they have supernatural abilities. This often undermines relationships.

Cluster B Personality Disorders

People with cluster B personality disorders have intense emotions and low impulse control. This can make it hard for anyone—including them—to predict their behavior. As a result, they often have a pattern of unstable relationships. There are a few different Cluster B personality disorders:

  • Antisocial personality disorder (ASPD) describes people who don’t conform to social norms. In particular, they may disregard other people’s safety. People with ASPD often engage in risky activities, like high-risk sexual behavior or drug abuse. They generally lack remorse for this behavior.
  • Borderline personality disorder (BPD) involves a pattern of instability in relationships, self-image, and identity. People with BPD are highly emotionally sensitive.
  • Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) ((Mitra, Paroma, and Dimy Fluyau. “Narcissistic Personality Disorder.” StatPearls, StatPearls Publishing, 2022. PubMed, http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK556001/.)) occurs in 2 types. Grandiose NPD includes an inflated sense of self, boldness, and sometimes aggression. Vulnerable NPD appears as hypersensitivity and defensiveness.
  • Histrionic personality disorder (HPD) includes attention-seeking behavior and emotional sensitivity. People with HPD place a lot of value on their reputation and physical appearance.

Much of the stigma around personality disorders comes from a misunderstanding of cluster B diagnoses. As a result, finding treatment for cluster B disorders might be the most difficult. ((Module 13: Personality Disorders – Fundamentals of Psychological Disorders. https://opentext.wsu.edu/abnormal-psych/chapter/module-13-personality-disorders/. Accessed 11 Dec. 2022.)) But at the same time, a great deal of research on personality disorders focuses on cluster B types. ((Mitra, Paroma, and Dimy Fluyau. “Narcissistic Personality Disorder.” StatPearls, StatPearls Publishing, 2022. PubMed, http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK556001/.)) That research proves recovery is common, even in the most severe cases.

Cluster C Personality Disorders

On the other hand, cluster C personality disorders have the most treatment options. ((Module 13: Personality Disorders – Fundamentals of Psychological Disorders. https://opentext.wsu.edu/abnormal-psych/chapter/module-13-personality-disorders/. Accessed 11 Dec. 2022.)) For these patients, the healing process resembles recovery from anxiety or depression. That’s because cluster C usually includes anxious thought patterns. There are 3 cluster C personality disorders:

  • Avoidant personality disorder (AvPD) features strong feelings of inadequacy. People with AvPD are sensitive to criticism. They usually fear intimacy and connection with other people.
  • Dependent personality disorder (DPD) involves being highly submissive in relationships. DPD undermines confidence, making it hard to make decisions for yourself.
  • Obsessive-compulsive personality disorder (OCPD), centers on perfectionism and the need for control. People with OCPD are hyperaware of rules and social norms, but reluctant to ask for help. This condition is notably different from obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

Experts continue to research new treatments for all 3 clusters of personality disorders. Despite that growing body of work, the cause of these conditions is largely unknown.

What Causes Personality Disorders?

Scientists have several theories about what causes personality disorders. ((Fariba, Kamron A., et al. “Personality Disorder.” StatPearls, StatPearls Publishing, 2022. PubMed, http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK556058/.)) But they still need more data. Some experts theorize that biology might play a role in these conditions. ((Module 13: Personality Disorders – Fundamentals of Psychological Disorders. https://opentext.wsu.edu/abnormal-psych/chapter/module-13-personality-disorders/. Accessed 11 Dec. 2022.)) For instance, ScPD has a similar biological cause as schizophrenia, which hints at a genetic link.

Meanwhile, other studies show that ASPD and BPD have a similar impact on brain chemistry. That could explain why both conditions interfere with impulse control.

Other experts believe that childhood trauma can cause personality disorders. For example, people with BPD are more than 3 times more likely to report childhood adversity. ((Porter, C., et al. “Childhood Adversity and Borderline Personality Disorder: A Meta-Analysis.” Acta Psychiatrica Scandinavica, vol. 141, no. 1, Jan. 2020, pp. 6–20. PubMed, https://doi.org/10.1111/acps.13118.)) And it’s not just BPD. Other personality disorders are linked to childhood traumas, ((“What Causes Personality Disorders?” Https://Www.Apa.Org, https://www.apa.org/topics/personality-disorders/causes. Accessed 11 Dec. 2022.
)) like physical and emotional abuse.

Not all the data supports this theory. According to some, childhood trauma “does not appear to be a key factor” in the development of personality disorders. ((Berenz, Erin C., et al. “Childhood Trauma and Personality Disorder Criterion Counts: A Co-Twin Control Analysis.” Journal of Abnormal Psychology, vol. 122, no. 4, Nov. 2013, pp. 1070–76. PubMed Central, https://doi.org/10.1037/a0034238.)) But they’re certainly linked to other diagnoses. For example, many people with personality disorders also experience addiction. ((“Personality Disorders.” National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/personality-disorders. Accessed 11 Dec. 2022.))

The Link Between Personality Disorders and Addiction

Researchers have identified a link between personality disorders and substance abuse. ((Module 13: Personality Disorders – Fundamentals of Psychological Disorders. https://opentext.wsu.edu/abnormal-psych/chapter/module-13-personality-disorders/. Accessed 11 Dec. 2022.)) Specifically, addiction is more common in people with ASPD, BPD, and STPD than others.

Studies show that over 50% of people with BPD have a history of addiction. ((“An Introduction to Co-Occurring Borderline Personality Disorder and Substance Use Disorders.” In Brief: Fall 2014, Volume 8, Issue 3. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, Department of Health and Human Services. https://store.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/d7/priv/sma14-4879.pdf)) And people with schizotypal personality disorder often have addictions ((Hasin, Deborah, et al. “Personality Disorders and the 3-Year Course of Alcohol, Drug, and Nicotine Use Disorders.” Archives of General Psychiatry, vol. 68, no. 11, Nov. 2011, pp. 1158–67. PubMed Central, https://doi.org/10.1001/archgenpsychiatry.2011.136.)) to cannabis and alcohol.

There’s also a complex relationship between antisocial personality disorder and addiction. ((Robins, L. N. “The Intimate Connection between Antisocial Personality and Substance Abuse.” Social Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology, vol. 33, no. 8, Aug. 1998, pp. 393–99. PubMed, https://doi.org/10.1007/s001270050071.)) Some experts believe one condition can cause the other. Others think that both ASPD and addiction develop in response to underlying issues, like unresolved trauma. From that viewpoint, both conditions are ineffective coping strategies for untreated symptoms. And working through those symptoms might help you recover.

High-risk behavior, including self-harm, is associated with several personality disorders. ((Module 13: Personality Disorders – Fundamentals of Psychological Disorders. https://opentext.wsu.edu/abnormal-psych/chapter/module-13-personality-disorders/. Accessed 11 Dec. 2022.)) In other words, addiction can be a symptom. But that’s not always the case. Some people use drugs to cope with other symptoms of their personality disorders. For instance, many people with AvPD have intense social anxiety. ((Module 13: Personality Disorders – Fundamentals of Psychological Disorders. https://opentext.wsu.edu/abnormal-psych/chapter/module-13-personality-disorders/. Accessed 11 Dec. 2022.)) And, whether or not you have AvPD, there’s a clear link between social anxiety and alcohol abuse.

If you or a loved one is at risk of self-harm, you can get help right away. Call The National Alliance on Mental Illness HelpLine at 1-800-950-6264 or text “HelpLine” to 62640.

If you have these co-occurring disorders, it’s important to treat both at the same time. Your personality disorder might make recovery more complex. But with the right treatment, you can learn to manage your symptoms with healthier coping skills.

Recovery and Remission From Personality Disorders

Untreated personality disorders can impact every area of your life. Serious symptoms can interfere with your mental health, work, relationships, and dreams for the future. But it’s important to note that many of these symptoms are behavioral. And by learning better behaviors, you can heal both your symptoms and their underlying causes. With the right types of ongoing care, it’s even possible to go into complete remission.

To start recovery, browse our rehabs that treat personality disorders and learn more about their pricing, locations, and different types of therapy.

Reviewed by Rajnandini Rathod

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Return to Your Values in Tennessee’s Affirming Rehabs

From the majestic Appalachian Mountains to the melodic voices crooning down Nashville’s Music Row, there’s a lot of beauty in Tennessee. This pretty place can make addiction treatment relaxing and joyful. If you’re looking for a welcoming setting to start your recovery, a rehab in Tennessee could be a great fit. 

Heal According to Tennessee’s Strong Principles 

Tennessee’s rich history of working hard, and enjoying life’s simple pleasures spills over into modern life. And when you go to rehab there, those principles can also shape your treatment.

Recover in Tennessee’s Restorative Nature

All across Tennessee, you’ll find flowing rivers, sprawling forests, and ancient mountains. Many of the state’s rehabs boast large campuses with plenty of room for reflection. Some offer meandering walking trails and tranquil places to enjoy the view.

Smoky Mountain Lodge sits on the edge of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Clients can take full advantage of their location by hiking to see the park’s gorgeous views. Recovering in peaceful nature can keep you grounded and centered throughout the healing process. 

cumberland heights tennessee
Cumberland Heights in Nashville

Stay Active With Experiential Therapies  

Many treatment centers in Tennessee offer experiential therapies, inspired by the area’s traditions and geography. For example, horses are an important part of Tennessee’s history and culture.1 Treatment centers like The Ranch Tennessee honor that heritage in their equine therapy program. On their expansive 2,000-acre ranch, equine-assisted therapy is a major component of treatment. By caring for the resident horses, clients learn more about themselves and practice building relationships.

Tennesseeans are also known for their taste for adventure. Rehabs like the ARCH Academy, which treats adolescent boys, tap into this mentality with adventure therapy. Clients can go canoeing, hiking, or fly-fishing to bond with their peers and learn new skills. These experiences invite teens to express their feelings in a new context.  

Get Into the Rhythm of Recovery in Music City

Home to country, rock ‘n’ roll, and the blues, Tennessee is famous for its music scene.2 And if music is important to you, professionally or personally, it can be a powerful tool during treatment.

This is especially true at rehabs like Recovery Unplugged Nashville. That’s why they designed their entire program around music. Their unique brand of music-assisted treatment can improve your depression, anxiety, mood, and chronic pain during recovery. They have a fully equipped jam room, group music therapy, and even songwriting sessions to help you express yourself through song. Plus, they frequently hold open mic nights and performances by other artists in recovery for sober fun. 

Relax in Family-Style Accommodations 

For many people, community is an important part of recovery. That’s why some programs have a strong focus on building relationships. In these rehabs, you can connect with like-minded people who want to support you in your journey toward wellness. 

In Tennessee, many rehabs offer family-style housing to support those connections. At centers like Morningstar, a women’s rehab outside of Nashville, clients live in a lodge with 5 other women. You and your housemates will cook dinner together, go on day trips, and attend the same group therapy sessions. Discovery Place offers treatment for men using a similar approach. Sober relationships are essential for long-term success in recovery,3 and family-style rehabs allow you to start forming them early on. 

the ranch tennessee
The Ranch Tennessee in Nunnelly

Find Identity-Affirming Treatment in Tennessee

Everyone’s recovery is as unique as they are. So finding a rehab that supports the most important parts of your identity is a crucial part of treatment. Many Tennessee rehabs offer specialized care for clients of different identities.

Gender-Specific Care

Attending rehab is a vulnerable experience. And for some people, it feels safer to be vulnerable around people of the same gender. What’s more, people of different genders face different obstacles to recovery. Going to a gender-specific rehab can help some clients access effective treatment.

In Tennessee, it’s easy to find a women-only or men-only rehab.  Morningstar, for example, has a women-only campus. Other programs, like Cumberland Heights, offer separate treatment for men and women on the same property. They even break down their men’s group into age-specific programming, recognizing how your stage of life can affect your recovery. 

Gender-specific treatment isn’t always a priority. And even if it is, these binary options might not meet your needs. In that case, you might consider a rehab that offers affirming treatment for LGBTQ+ people. These programs can be a good fit for people of many different genders and sexualities. Such supportive environments empower clients to live out their own highest values.  

Faith-Based Recovery

As you work to be your best self, spirituality can guide you forward. Many people find comfort and inspiration in faith-based treatment. In these rehabs, the tenets of a particular belief system inform every aspect of recovery.  

S2L Recovery, for instance, uses 7 Christian principles as the framework for their treatment program. They use lessons from the Bible to help you develop a deeper faith and sense of resilience. This can set you up for success after you complete treatment. If your faith is important to you, then it can be an excellent foundation for your ongoing recovery. 

Other faith-based treatment centers follow the 12 Steps, a well-known recovery philosophy. At The Next Door, in Nashville, treatment “integrates 12 step recovery, faith, and evidence-based practices to address the needs of the whole woman – mind, body, and spirit.” 

discovery place tennessee
Discovery Place in Burns

How to Travel to and Around Tennessee

More than half of the U.S. population lives within about a day’s drive of Nashville.4 But if you’re coming from farther away, you’ll most likely want to fly.

Flying Into Tennessee 

If you’re traveling from abroad, you’ll likely fly into Nashville International Airport (BNA), which serves 22 different airlines with over 585 nonstop flights daily. BNA is centrally located in Tennessee.

If you’re going to rehab in western Tennessee, flying into the Memphis International Airport might bring you closer to your treatment center. And for people attending eastern Tennessee rehabs, the Chattanooga Airport is closest.  

Getting Around Tennessee

Most of Tennessee’s public transit options are in metropolitan areas, so you’ll probably have to rely on private transportation to get to your treatment center. Because of this, many rehabs will pick you up from the airport directly, making the last leg of your journey that much simpler.

With any mode of transport, it’s a good idea to have a support person travel with you to rehab. This is an emotional time. When someone else is handling the logistics, you can stay focused on starting recovery.

Recover, Relax, and Reconnect in a Tennessee Rehab

If you’re thinking about addiction treatment, it might feel like life has gotten away from you. In Tennessee, rehab can be a safe place to gather your strength. Here, you’ll be healing among people who welcome you just as you are, and share many of your values. Even if you’ve never been to the state before, treatment here can feel like coming home to yourself.


Visit our list of rehabs in Tennessee for information on their amenities, pricing, experiential treatments, and more.

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How Long Does Rehab Last?

The short answer is: it depends. Many factors influence the length of your stay in residential rehab. You can plan around some of these in advance. For example, your insurance might only pay for certain types of care, but other issues may arise while you’re in treatment. Ultimately, you’ll work with a team of experts to come up with a plan. And by following it, you can move toward your personal recovery goals.

How Long Is Rehab for Addiction?

Different types of rehab last for different amounts of time. Some programs—like initial detox—might last only a few days to a week. Others can go on for months or even years. And according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), “good outcomes are contingent on adequate treatment length.” ((Principles of Drug Addiction Treatment: A Research-Based Guide (Third Edition). (2014). National Institute on Drug Abuse. https://nida.nih.gov/sites/default/files/podat-3rdEd-508.pdf)) NIDA recommends at least 90 days of treatment for most patients.

As you prepare for rehab, consider which types of treatment are right for you. But remember that your plan may change after you start recovery. It’s important to stay present with yourself, so you can meet your evolving needs.

Detox

Medical detox from addiction ((Center for Substance Abuse Treatment. Detoxification and Substance Abuse Treatment. Treatment Improvement Protocol (TIP) Series, No. 45. HHS Publication No. (SMA) 15-4131. Rockville, MD: Center for Substance Abuse Treatment, 2006.)) usually lasts 10 days or less. If you detox in an inpatient setting, a care team will help you navigate the process. You may receive prescription medications, attend therapy, or get other medical treatment during withdrawal.

If your symptoms are more severe, your stay might last longer. That’s especially likely if you’re detoxing from certain substances. Withdrawal from alcohol, ((Kattimani, S., & Bharadwaj, B. (2013). Clinical management of alcohol withdrawal: A systematic review. Industrial Psychiatry Journal, 22(2), 100. https://doi.org/10.4103/0972-6748.132914)) benzodiazepines, ((Pétursson, H. (1994). The benzodiazepine withdrawal syndrome. Addiction (Abingdon, England), 89(11), 1455–1459. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1360-0443.1994.tb03743.x)) and opioids ((Yes, people can die from opiate withdrawal | NDARC – National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre. (n.d.). Retrieved October 14, 2022, from https://ndarc.med.unsw.edu.au/blog/yes-people-can-die-opiate-withdrawal)) is especially risky. It’s essential to get medical attention when you start recovery from any of these substances.

Detox is often the first step in recovery—but it’s not the last. Some programs even require you to have a plan for longer-term recovery before you start treatment.

Inpatient Treatment

In one review of inpatient addiction treatment options, ((Reif, S., George, P., Braude, L., Dougherty, R. H., Daniels, A. S., Ghose, S. S., & Delphin-Rittmon, M. E. (2014). Residential treatment for individuals with substance use disorders: Assessing the evidence. Psychiatric Services, 65(3), 301–312. https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.ps.201300242)) researchers found that “most planned stays now range from weeks to months, depending on the program and the person’s needs.” Most addiction rehab programs last at least one month, ((Center for Substance Abuse Treatment. What Is Substance Abuse Treatment? A Booklet for Families. HHS Publication No. (SMA) 14-4126. Rockville, MD: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, 2004.)) and some can last as long as 1 year.

Several issues can affect your total length of stay in rehab. If you want to plan ahead, you can start by answering these questions for yourself. Then, share your thoughts with your care team. They’ll help you make a plan that accounts for your current health status, and your long-term goals.

  • What is your physical health status? Do you need close medical supervision?
  • Are you recovering from any co-occurring disorders, along with addiction?
  • Do you have any ongoing legal obligations? For example, are you required to complete rehab in order to fulfill a court order?
  • What types of addiction treatment does your insurance cover?
  • What are your plans for aftercare?

Healing isn’t linear, and your answers to these questions will probably change over time. But with the right support, you can stay on track before, during, and after inpatient treatment.

Outpatient Treatment

There are several types of addiction treatment programs. Whether or not you attend inpatient rehab, you can also consider outpatient recovery. For example, you could attend a partial hospitalization program (PHP), or an intensive outpatient program (IOP). In either of these, you would live off-site, and travel to the center for therapy. In a PHP, patients attend up to 30+ hours of treatment per week. IOPs offer more flexibility, with an average of 10-15 weekly hours.

Outpatient programs can work well if you’re in good physical health, but still need support during recovery. And if your insurance won’t cover residential treatment, it may still pay for an IOP or PHP. You can also get outpatient aftercare once you finish inpatient rehab. Outpatient addiction treatment ((Center for Substance Abuse Treatment. What Is Substance Abuse Treatment? A Booklet for Families. HHS Publication No. (SMA) 14-4126. Rockville, MD: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, 2004.)) typically lasts somewhere between 2 months and 1 year. If you’re healing from a dual diagnosis, like co-occurring addiction and depression, that may also affect your recovery timeline.

How Long Is Rehab for Other Mental Health Issues?

Rehab isn’t just for addiction. You can also get inpatient treatment for diagnoses like anxiety and depression. There are even rehab programs that treat grief. It’s harder to predict the appropriate length of stay for these conditions, since recovery means something different for every patient.

Your treatment plan will depend on your exact symptoms. And with the help of your rehab’s admissions team, you might be able to predict how long you’ll need to stay in treatment. For example, rehab for depression normally lasts for a few weeks. But if you need more support, it can continue for a matter of months.

How Long Will Insurance Pay for Inpatient Treatment?

Most insurance plans will cover at least 60 days of inpatient rehab, ((Mojtabai, R., Mauro, C., Wall, M. M., Barry, C. L., & Olfson, M. (2020). Private health insurance coverage of drug use disorder treatment: 2005–2018. PLOS ONE, 15(10), e0240298. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0240298)) for both addiction and mental health treatment. But every insurer is different, and it may depend on your specific plan. Make sure to confirm the details with your insurance provider before you start treatment. The admissions team at your rehab should also be able answer your questions about pricing.

Learn more about the costs of rehab and how to make sure your insurance covers treatment.

Medicare

If you have Medicare, it may limit which rehab centers you can attend. ((Inpatient rehabilitation care coverage. (n.d.). Retrieved October 14, 2022, from https://www.medicare.gov/coverage/inpatient-rehabilitation-care)) Before you commit to a program, make sure it’s covered by your specific insurance plan. You’ll also need your doctor to confirm that it’s medically necessary for you to attend rehab. If you satisfy these criteria, Medicare will cover 60 full days of inpatient treatment after you meet your deductible.

Private Insurance

In the U.S., most private insurers cover rehab for addiction. ((Abraham, A. J., Andrews, C. M., Grogan, C. M., D’Aunno, T., Humphreys, K. N., Pollack, H. A., & Friedmann, P. D. (2017). The affordable care act transformation of substance use disorder treatment. American Journal of Public Health, 107(1), 31–32. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2016.303558)) But that’s not universally true. And, there are often strict limitations on how long private insurance will pay for treatment. ((Gerstein, D. R., & Harwood, H. J. (1990). Private coverage. National Academies Press (US). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK235505/)) This varies between different providers, and different insurance plans. Contact your insurance directly to learn more about your options. You can also ask the admissions team at your rehab for assistance. By planning ahead, you’ll avoid unpleasant surprises after you complete treatment. With that peace of mind, you can focus on what matters most: your continued recovery.

How Long Does Addiction Recovery Take?

Many experts believe “recovery from addiction is a lifelong process.” ((Laudet, A. B., Savage, R., & Mahmood, D. (2002). Pathways to long-term recovery: A preliminary investigation. Journal of Psychoactive Drugs, 34(3), 305–311. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1852519/)) Because this condition has both psychological and physical components, healing isn’t easy. And the process is different for everyone.

It might be complex, but addiction is highly treatable. ((Abuse, National Institute on Drug. “Treatment and Recovery.” National Institute on Drug Abuse, –, https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugs-brains-behavior-science-addiction/treatment-recovery.)) And as you heal, you’ll start to define what recovery means, ((Laudet, A. B. (2007). What does recovery mean to you? Lessons from the recovery experience for research and practice. Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment, 33(3), 243–256. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsat.2007.04.014)) on your own terms. For you, success might mean total sobriety from all substances. Or, it might mean that you no longer drink, but you still smoke cigarettes. There’s no wrong answer here. You don’t need to fit into anyone else’s box. The goal is to build a rich, meaningful life that makes you healthy and happy.

Connect with a residential rehab facility directly to learn about their typical treatment timelines, facilities, and programming.

Reviewed by Rajnandini Rathod

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Connecticut Rehab Centers: Recovery in Peaceful Settings With Expert Medical Care

With rigorous treatment in peaceful surroundings, Connecticut rehabs offer the best of 2 worlds. You can attend treatment nestled within beautiful nature, just a stone’s throw from a major U.S. city. This state is also home to world-renowned research universities. And as a result, rehab here can connect you with some of the greatest medical minds in the world.

Going to rehab in Connecticut is a good fit for people who want a middle ground between retreat and connection. At some centers, you can even stay in touch with your loved ones during treatment. But, in this serene setting, you’ll also have the space you need to heal.

Finding Balance

In the heart of New England, Connecticut is close to some of the biggest cities in the U.S.—and some of the country’s most beautiful nature. Clients can enjoy the stunning scenery, without feeling cut off from urban amenities. 

Enjoy a Serene Environment for Recovery

Despite being close to several big cities, many areas in Connecticut are rural.1 The Connecticut River flows through old hardwood forests and rolling hills, with the Berkshire highlands rising out of the northwest corner. In these beautiful surroundings, recovery can be peaceful and restorative. Studies show that immersing yourself in nature can improve symptoms of anxiety and depression,2 sleep quality, and stress. 

In rehabs like Mountainside Treatment Center, in the foothills of the Berkshires, clients heal “surrounded by lush greenery and open skies.” Without the distractions of urban life, you can put all your energy into recovery.

turnbridge connecticut
Turnbridge in New Haven, Connecticut

Test Your Limits With Outdoor Adventures

If you’re longing for adventures in the great outdoors, Connecticut offers easy access to world-class hiking, skiing, rock climbing, rafting, and more. These activities get your heart pumping—and they help your mind heal. 

At treatment centers like Turnbridge, patients can go on camping, hiking, skiing, and snowboarding trips, depending on the time of the year. You can also try paintball, rock climbing, even deep sea fishing. Thanks to Connecticut’s diverse geography, which includes mountains, rivers, and a rugged coastline, this is a wonderful place to go if you’re interested in outdoor adventure therapy. 

Addiction Treatment From Leading Experts

Even if your rehab is in a rural area, Connecticut is small enough that you’ll never be far from a big city. That means you’ll be close to major universities, like Yale and UConn. And some of the world’s top experts in addiction and mental health are based at these schools. For example, The Steward House at Silver Hill is “the product of collaboration among the leading psychiatry institutions of Yale New Haven Health and the Department of Psychiatry at Yale School of Medicine.” Clients here have access to leading experts while in residential care in a non-hospital setting. These specialists can help you define your unique needs and goals for recovery.

Be Yourself in Connecticut

Recovering from addiction or mental illness is all about finding yourself again. In Connecticut, there’s room for you to be exactly who you are. 

Connecticut Rehabs Welcome LGBTQ+ Clients

It’s crucial for LGBTQ+ clients to find affirming treatment. Anything less can interfere with your recovery journey. And unfortunately, not all treatment programs are inclusive. But Connecticut has a long history of supporting LGBTQ+ rights.3

The state is well known for its progressive legislation. It even boasts rehab centers just for LGBTQ+ people, like Recovery at WildWood Farm. In this program, clients recover alongside people who share at least 1 part of their personal experience. This can make it easier to connect with the other clients in your program, and share mutual support.

mountainside treatment center connecticut
Mountainside Treatment Center in Cannan, Connecticut

Stay Independent During Recovery

Not everyone wants to connect with their peers during recovery. Some Connecticut rehabs—like Blue Sky Behavioral Health—let clients live a more independent life, even during intensive treatment. In their “intense outpatient program,” clients live in off-site housing while attending rehab. You’ll shop for your own food and have your own private space, in a house you share with other clients. And you’ll still have round-the-clock guidance from a life coach, in addition to on-site therapy 5 days a week. For people who value freedom and autonomy, this can make treatment less stressful.

Treatment for High-Level Executives

If you’re a busy professional, going to rehab might feel like an abrupt halt. That’s especially true if you think of your job as part of your identity. And unplugging from work can be stressful, instead of feeling like a break. Some of Connecticut’s rehab programs let you stay connected, while still getting the treatment you need.

Perhaps because the state is close to so many major cities, several centers in Connecticut offer rehab for high-level professionals. For example, Privé-Swiss specializes in treating executives. Their experts can help you rebuild the skills you need to live a life you love, sustainably. 

If you can’t leave work for inpatient treatment, some Connecticut rehabs have outpatient options. These programs might be a good fit for people who live in the area, and have strong local support networks. If you’re traveling to the area for treatment, you can attend a residential program, or ask your care team about local housing.

Traveling to Rehab in Connecticut

Connecticut is centrally located in New England. Because this region is such a hub for travel, it’s easy to access the state from anywhere in the U.S. or around the world. If you’re flying in for treatment, make sure you plan your route carefully. Within the state, you can fly into Bradley International Airport, which serves 9 domestic and 7 international airlines. If you can’t find a direct flight from your area to Bradley, you can fly into any of the New York City, Boston, or Providence airports. 

Once you arrive in New England, it’s easy to get exactly where you’re going. You can take an Amtrak train from any of the major cities to over 20 different stations in Connecticut. There are also frequent MetroNorth trains through Fairfield and New Haven counties. 

While it’s easy to get around Connecticut, it’s still important to plan carefully. The last leg of your trip to rehab is a delicate time. If at all possible, avoid traveling alone. You might ask a loved one or support person to go with you. And many rehabs in Connecticut also offer complimentary rides within a certain radius. For example, Retreat Behavioral Health South Connecticut will transport you to treatment for free within a 4-hour radius. 

Start a Healthier Life in the Land of Steady Habits

Choosing a treatment program can be scary. This is a big decision, and you might have to make it quickly. Here, rehab will help you stay grounded as you start recovery. There’s a reason Connecticut is known as the Land of Steady Habits. Treatment professionals here welcome people of all identities, offering a balance of independence and support. If respectful, structured environments make you feel safe, these programs might be a great fit.  


Browse our list of rehabs in Connecticut to learn about types of treatment, pricing, locations, and more.

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But What if I Relapse?

If you’re healing from addiction, it makes sense to worry about relapse. This can be a concern at every stage of recovery, whether you’re just starting detox or years into sobriety. Cravings and triggers don’t just disappear. But with the right type of addiction treatment, you can make a plan to keep yourself safe.

Notice the Warning Signs

Everyone’s triggers are different. And in recovery, you’ll learn to recognize and work through them as they arise. Some of them you can simply avoid—like going to the bar, or missing a night of sleep. Others are inescapable. But because these situations are so common, you can often see them coming. And that foresight can help you navigate them more skillfully.

Stress

Stress is a natural part of life. And that’s not always a bad thing. Even positive events can be stressful, ((Why stress and anxiety aren’t always bad. (n.d.). Https://Www.Apa.Org. Retrieved October 27, 2022, from https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/2019/08/stress-anxiety)) like buying a new car or planning a wedding. You can’t avoid all big changes—and you shouldn’t try to. But you can manage your emotional response to them.

As you return to life after treatment, try to be gentle with yourself. Data shows that people with addiction are more vulnerable to stress. ((Stocker, S. (1999). Studies Link Stress and Drug Addiction. The Science of Drug Abuse and Addiction Research Findings, 14(1). https://web.archive.org/web/20170829165640id_/https://www.centerforaddictionrecovery.com/stress/Studies-Link-Stress-and-Drug-Addiction-NIDA.pdf)) And what’s more, unmanaged stress can increase your risk of relapse. ((Sinha R. (2012). How does stress lead to risk of alcohol relapse?. Alcohol research : current reviews, 34(4), 432–440. Retrieved October 27, 2022 from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3788822/)) That’s why it’s important to have a plan for how you’ll handle these situations when they come up.

According to experts, emotion regulation skills can help you get through stressful situations. ((Langer, K., Hagedorn, B., Stock, L.-M., Otto, T., Wolf, O. T., & Jentsch, V. L. (2020). Acute stress improves the effectivity of cognitive emotion regulation in men. Scientific Reports, 10(1), 11571. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-020-68137-5
)) You can learn these skills in rehab or from a therapist, and practice them on your own. For example, you might meditate, do breathing exercises, or try other mindfulness techniques. These coping strategies can keep you centered during intense moments.

Trauma

Even in times of stability, you might be distracted by painful memories. And unprocessed trauma is linked to addiction. ((Khoury, L., Tang, Y. L., Bradley, B., Cubells, J. F., & Ressler, K. J. (2010). Substance use, childhood traumatic experience, and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder in an urban civilian population. Depression and anxiety, 27(12), 1077–1086. https://doi.org/10.1002/da.20751)) This is true whether it occurred in childhood, in recent years, or as a result of drug use. Working with a trained therapist can help you move forward, but it won’t undo the past. You may still confront triggers from time to time. When that happens, you can use skills to work through your emotional response.

Addiction is a common response to trauma. ((Schneiderman, N., Ironson, G., & Siegel, S. D. (2005). Stress and health: psychological, behavioral, and biological determinants. Annual review of clinical psychology, 1, 607–628. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev.clinpsy.1.102803.144141
)) Taking drugs can make you feel like you have control of your own mind, even though the opposite is true.  And if you’ve ever used drugs to deal with trauma, you might be more likely to fall back on that behavior. Scientists have established a clear link “between craving, relapse, and PTSD symptoms.” ((Gielen, N., Krumeich, A., Tekelenburg, M., Nederkoorn, C., & Havermans, R. C. (2016). How patients perceive the relationship between trauma, substance abuse, craving, and relapse: A qualitative study. Journal of Substance Use, 21(5), 466–470.))

Traumatic memories and events might always trigger your cravings. But in trauma-informed rehab, you’ll learn coping skills that work better than drug use. And when you put those skills to use, it’s more than damage control. It can also be empowering.

Know Your Triggers

Recovery from almost anything is the process of getting to know yourself again. That’s true for addiction, mental health issues, trauma, and even some physical conditions. Maybe your energy levels are different, or you have new needs and boundaries. Maybe you want to pick up different hobbies, or restructure your relationships. There’s no wrong answer, as long as you stay present, honest with yourself, and focused on living a healthy life.

Understanding your own triggers is a big part of this process. And triggers aren’t always easy to predict or even explain. If you were once in a car crash, you might be triggered by loud noises or getting stuck in traffic. But you can also be triggered by relationship dynamics, sensations, and even emotions.

Learning to anticipate triggers and cravings can be confusing at first. But over time, it becomes intuitive. The first step is just paying attention to your own emotional reactions. Then, you can discuss your feelings with your therapist or another provider. With this information about your own impulses, you can start planning healthy ways to respond.

Guard Against Relapse by Planning Ahead

From the moment you enter rehab, your team will help you prepare for the risk of relapse. During treatment, you’ll amass resources and coping strategies to help you guard against it. And if you do relapse, you’ll already have a plan for what comes next.

Build an Emotional First-Aid Kit

Cravings aren’t convenient. They won’t always happen in the comfort of your home, or when you’re about to have a day off. In fact, because of the link between relapse and stress, you might be at a higher risk while you’re doing something important.

When you’re already feeling stressed, it can be hard to think clearly. That’s why some people in recovery make emotional first-aid kits. Your kit can take any form, from an actual first-aid kit to a post-it note to an art project. Just make sure it’s easily accessible, and has genuinely helpful information. You can start by including a few standard resources:

  • a list of activities that help you calm down, like exercising or playing games
  • a list of distress tolerance skills you find helpful, like breathing exercises or listening to a song you love
  • a comfort object, like a soft pillow or a worry stone
  • a copy of your favorite book
  • a mantra you can repeat to yourself during meditation
  • the phone numbers for trusted contacts, like your therapist, your sponsor, or your best friend

Connect With Your Community

Strong relationships decrease the risk of relapse. ((Ellis, B., Bernichon, T., Yu, P., Roberts, T., & Herrell, J. M. (2004). Effect of social support on substance abuse relapse in a residential treatment setting for women. Evaluation and Program Planning, 27(2), 213–221. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.evalprogplan.2004.01.011)) And you can start building your support network as soon as you enter recovery. That could mean meeting new people, or recommitting to loved ones. In many programs, you can even do family therapy during rehab.

Your support system can include several different types of relationships. Friends, family, and chosen family members are a great place to start. But you can also join more formal communities. Both 12-Step and non-12-Step groups  (like SMART Recovery groups) offer peer support. In these meetings, you can share your concerns about relapse with people who likely feel the same way.

When people expect things from you, they’ll hold you accountable. This even applies to low-stakes situations. If you miss a friend’s birthday party, they might ask if you’re ok. In the long term, these gentle nudges can help you stay on track. And, after you build trust over time, you’ll have people to lean on in crisis situations.

Stick With (or Revisit) Your Continuing Care Plan

Personal relationships are essential, but they’re just one piece of the puzzle. While you can ask friends for emotional support, you can’t depend on them for clinical treatment. It’s important to find a team of mental health providers who can see you through recovery.

If you attend residential rehab, you can start planning for aftercare during treatment. In some cases, you can continue seeing the same therapist after you return home. But most of the time, you’ll need to look for a new one. You might also find other specialists, like a psychiatrist or a medical doctor who understands addiction.

These experts can help you plan ahead. They might notice behavioral warning signs, and suggest you take action even before you relapse. And if you’re in crisis, they can connect you with valuable resources, and help you focus on healing.

Responding to Relapse

Relapse happens. Healing is complex, even if you have great coping skills. And your path toward recovery might not be a straight line. And that’s okay.

If you do relapse, it’s important to face the issues behind it. Shame and addiction are related, ((Matthews, S., Dwyer, R., & Snoek, A. (2017). Stigma and Self-Stigma in Addiction. Journal of bioethical inquiry, 14(2), 275–286. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11673-017-9784-y)) and hiding your problems can exacerbate them. Instead, it’s best to find help as soon as you can. Reach out to your support network and your care team to let them know what’s happening. You can also call your original treatment center and ask them for advice.

Depending on your circumstances, you might need to kickstart recovery again. This could mean going through detox, returning to rehab, or trying something new. Your mental health provider can help you decide on the best way to move forward.

Recommitting to the Recovery Journey

Whatever comes after relapse, you can rely on one thing: you won’t be starting from scratch. Even this bump in the road is a step toward recovery. Relapse gives you important information about your triggers, needs, and recovery goals. And you can use that information to make even better choices about what comes next.

See our searchable directory of rehabs to get support at any stage of recovery, from detox to continuing care.

Reviewed by Rajnandini Rathod

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How Rehabs Protect Your Privacy

Addiction can affect anyone, from high-profile CEOs to teens. In spite of this, there’s a stigma attached to admitting you have a problem. And unfortunately, that stigma prevents some people from getting help.

If you’re considering rehab, it makes sense to think about how it will impact your reputation. But that doesn’t have to get in the way of treatment. Wherever you go to rehab for addiction, there are ways to maintain confidentiality. When you trust that the details of your recovery will be private, you can focus all your energy on healing.

Why Does Privacy Matter?

Privacy isn’t always a priority. Depending on your lifestyle, you may not mind having people know you’re going to rehab. And because community support is so important for recovery, ((Dobkin, P. L., Civita, M. D., Paraherakis, A., & Gill, K. (2002). The role of functional social support in treatment retention and outcomes among outpatient adult substance abusers: Social support and treatment outcome. Addiction, 97(3), 347–356. https://doi.org/10.1046/j.1360-0443.2002.00083.x)) this can work in your favor. But going public isn’t right for everyone. There are several reasons you might choose to keep your circle small.

High-profile patients, like politicians, might not want the stress of managing their image. Parents may be concerned that their recovery will impact their children’s relationships. Whether you’re thinking of your family, your job, your future, or all 3, you have the right to decide who knows your story. And there are clinical standards in place to ensure that.

Legal Standards for Confidentiality

In the U.S., healthcare providers must adhere to certain laws that govern patient privacy. When it comes to addiction rehab, 2 important regulations are the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) ((How does HIPAA interact with the federal confidentiality rules for substance use disorder treatment information in an emergency situation—Which rules should be followed? [Text]. (2018, January 4). HHS.Gov. https://www.hhs.gov/hipaa/for-professionals/faq/3005/how-does-hipaa-interact-federal-confidentiality-rules-substance-use-disorder-treatment-information-in-emergency/index.html
)) and Title 42 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Part 2 (42 CFR Part 2). ((Confidentiality of substance use disorder patient records. (2017, January 18). Federal Register. https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2017/01/18/2017-00719/confidentiality-of-substance-use-disorder-patient-records))

HIPAA

HIPAA is a federal law.  According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, “The Standards for Privacy of Individually Identifiable Health Information (“Privacy Rule”) establishes, for the first time, a set of national standards for the protection of certain health information. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (“HHS”) issued the Privacy Rule to implement the requirement of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (“HIPAA”).”

Sometimes it’s important to share this sensitive information. For instance, you might be seeing both a therapist and a psychiatrist. And if they can talk to each other about your mental health, you can get more comprehensive support. But you get to decide. If you so choose, you can authorize providers to share your private medical data. ((Health insurance portability and accountability act of 1996 (Hipaa) | cdc. (2022, June 28). https://www.cdc.gov/phlp/publications/topic/hipaa.html))
In most cases, your healthcare providers cannot share your information with your employer, ((Employers and health information in the workplace [Text]. (2008, November 19). HHS.Gov. https://www.hhs.gov/hipaa/for-individuals/employers-health-information-workplace/index.html)) or with your friends and family. ((Family members and friends. (2008, November 19). HHS.Gov. https://www.hhs.gov/hipaa/for-individuals/family-members-friends/index.html)) However, if a judge issues a court order to disclose your medical records, ((Court orders and subpoenas. (2008, November 19). HHS.Gov. https://www.hhs.gov/hipaa/for-individuals/court-orders-subpoenas/index.html)) they may have no choice. If you’re attending rehab involuntarily, you should talk to your lawyer and your healthcare team about how that may affect you.

42 CFR Part 2

While HIPAA governs how all medical data is shared, 42 CFR Part 2 governs only addiction treatment. ((Disclosure of Substance Use Disorder Patient Records: Does Part 2 Apply to Me? (n.d.). SAMHSA. https://www.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/does-part2-apply.pdf)) This federal law prevents some rehab centers from sharing identifying information about their patients. This is so people in recovery won’t be treated unfairly in other legal cases, such as employment, child custody, or divorce.

It’s important to note that 42 CFR Part 2 only applies to federally assisted recovery programs. ((42 cfr part 2—Confidentiality of substance use disorder patient records. (n.d.). Retrieved October 24, 2022, from https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-42/chapter-I/subchapter-A/part-2)) This can include programs that are run by the government, receive federal funding, or meet certain other criteria. You can ask your admissions team if your rehab center is legally bound by this regulation.

Whether or not a center adheres to 42 CFR Part 2, it may still emphasize confidentiality. And some programs go above and beyond federal regulations. You can even choose a type of treatment based on what level of privacy feels safest to you.

Privacy in Different Types of Addiction Treatment

There are many ways to approach addiction recovery. Whether you’re looking for residential treatment or an intensive outpatient program (IOP), most centers offer some level of confidentiality. Here’s what you can expect from different types of rehab.

Residential Treatment

From a privacy perspective, residential treatment has several advantages. With physical distance from your community, you won’t have to worry about prying eyes. Even if you attend rehab nearby, you can choose a program in a discreet location. Many rehabs are located rurally, so you can enjoy the healing benefits of nature, and trust that no one you know will just happen by.

If you travel for addiction treatment, you’ll gain an extra level of confidentiality. You might also benefit from the change of scenery. And if anyone asks where you’ve been, you can honestly tell them about the place you visited—while omitting any mention of your recovery.

Residential rehab does have some drawbacks. Most of these programs treat several patients at once. So if you’re a public figure, the other residents might recognize you. And if you go on any outings, you may interact with people who aren’t bound by privacy laws.

Outpatient Treatment

In outpatient rehab, you’ll live on your own while you attend treatment. Often, patients keep living at home—but you can still travel for rehab if you prefer. These programs have more flexible scheduling than residential ones.

Depending on your program, you may need to take time away from work to focus on recovery. But that’s not always the case. Intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) have a lower time commitment than residential rehab. ((For people in treatment, who engages with recovery residences, and does it boost retention? (2022, March 24). Recovery Research Institute. https://www.recoveryanswers.org/research-post/deeper-dive-recovery-residence-participants-who-more-likely-use-them-how-affect-engagement-outpatient-care/)) These programs usually include about 10 weekly treatment hours. That gives you the freedom to keep working part time, going to school, or seeing your friends. Keeping these commitments helps you keep up appearances—and keep your recovery private.

Much like residential rehab, outpatient treatment normally takes place in a group setting. For some patients, this is a benefit. You can start building a sober community right away, instead of waiting to get home from your travels. But if confidentiality is your top priority, these connections can be an issue. If you’re concerned about attending rehab with a group, there are other options to consider.

1:1 Rehab Facilities

Some centers offer the ultimate type of confidential care: personalized rehab for 1 patient at a time. These programs cater to high-profile patients, who require absolute privacy. You may find yourself in a beautiful, remote location for the duration of your stay.

The goal of 1:1 addiction rehab to meet each patient’s unique needs. From your schedule to your meal plan, every aspect of 1:1 treatment will be personalized. And with no other patients to attend to, the staff will be entirely focused on your recovery.

This type of treatment might not be accessible to everyone. Many of these programs take only private insurance, and some of them don’t take insurance at all. And what’s more, this level of confidentiality can be isolating. And there are other ways to get complete—or near-complete—privacy during rehab.

Recover in a Virtual IOP

As telehealth grows more popular, some centers now offer virtual rehab. Usually, patients can design their own treatment schedule. This lets you work around professional and personal commitments. And best of all, it lets you start recovery in the comfort and privacy of your own home.

These programs strike a balance between connection and confidentiality. You’ll stay in touch with local friends and family, who can offer daily emotional support. But you’ll also have daily access to a team of experts in addiction treatment. And there will be no need to explain why you left home for several weeks.

Virtual treatment isn’t right for everyone. By the time you start rehab, there might already be a strain on your relationships. If that’s the case, you may need privacy from even your family during initial treatment. Or, you might need more emotional support than they can offer while you’re living at home. If you’re not sure which option is best for you, ask the admissions team at your rehab to help you make a plan.

The Confidential Care You Deserve

When it comes to addiction recovery, not everyone requires total privacy. But if you do, it can be a major barrier to treatment. Asking for help is hard enough on its own, without the added concern of unwanted attention.

You have every right to get the treatment you need. You can distance yourself from the general public, but stay connected to people who can help. The important thing is to find the balance that best meets your needs.

Browse our searchable list of rehabs to learn more about their privacy policies, locations, insurance coverage, and more. Also, explore the latest RehabPath News for updates about our company.

Reviewed by Rajnandini Rathod

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4 Alternative Therapies for Trauma

Healing from trauma is complicated, and nonlinear. Symptoms can last for years after you get to safety—and they can change over time. What comforts you on a Monday may be triggering on Tuesday. It can be frustrating to feel like you’re not healing fast enough, even when you’re actively trying to get better.

That frustration can be valuable, if you let it motivate you. Healing is, in part, the process of getting to know yourself again. And in rehab for trauma, you can achieve that in any number of ways. You might even experiment with different forms of treatment, until you find the ones that work best for you. These non-traditional therapies can be powerful components of your recovery.

Somatic Healing

Emotional trauma impacts physical health. ((Ho, G. W. K., Karatzias, T., Vallières, F., Bondjers, K., Shevlin, M., Cloitre, M., Ben-Ezra, M., Bisson, J. I., Roberts, N. P., Astill Wright, L., & Hyland, P. (2021). Complex PTSD symptoms mediate the association between childhood trauma and physical health problems. Journal of Psychosomatic Research, 142, 110358. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpsychores.2021.110358)) Research even links childhood trauma to heart disease in adults. As a result, experts believe that body-based therapies can support emotional recovery from trauma. ((Grabbe, L., & Miller-Karas, E. (2018). The trauma resiliency model: A “bottom-up” intervention for trauma psychotherapy. Journal of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association, 24(1), 76–84. https://doi.org/10.1177/1078390317745133)) One study reported that these treatments are “more effective for trauma than currently used cognitive (‘top-down”) and exposure therapies.”

Somatic therapies—or body-based therapies—focus on the mind-body connection. Treatments help you address the trauma stored in both your brain and your body, at the same time.

Bodywork

Studies show that receiving safe, healthy touch can help you process traumatic experiences. ((Strauss, J., & Lang, A. (2012). Complementary and alternative treatments for ptsd. PTSD Research Quarterly, 23(2), 2–7. https://www.ptsd.va.gov/publications/rq_docs/v23n2.pdf)) For example, massage and other types of bodywork may help people heal from the emotional impact of sexual assault.

Trauma and Tension Release Exercises (TRE)

These exercises help patients let go of physical and emotional tension. During a session, you’ll shake your body in a safe, gentle way. Experts say that TRE mimics the natural feeling of shaking in response to trauma. ((Case report of a former soldier using tre (Tension/trauma releasing exercises) for posttraumatic stress disorder self-care. (n.d.). JMVH. Retrieved from https://jmvh.org/article/case-report-of-a-former-soldier-using-tre-tension-trauma-releasing-exercises-for-posttraumatic-stress-disorder-self-care/)) And that sensation can “relieve tension, reduce hypervigilance” and increase feelings of well-being. If you’d like to try TRE, make sure you learn it from a trained practitioner. Once you’re comfortable with the exercises, you can also use them as a type of self-care.

Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT)

Also called tapping, EFT teaches patients to tap on acupressure points ((Flint, G. A., Lammers, W., & Mitnick, D. G. (2006). Emotional freedom techniques. Journal of Aggression, Maltreatment & Trauma, 12(1–2), 125–150. https://doi.org/10.1300/J146v12n01_07)) to relieve stress. Studies show that emotional freedom technique relieves trauma symptoms, ((Church, D., Hawk, C., Brooks, A., Toukolehto, O., Wren, M., Dinter, I., & Stein, P. (2013). Psychological Trauma Symptom Improvement in Veterans Using Emotional Freedom Techniques. The Journal of Nervous and Mental Disease, 201(2), 153–160. https://doi.org/10.1097/NMD.0b013e31827f6351)) sometimes completely. EFT can also treat clinical depression and anxiety.  ((Bach, D., Groesbeck, G., Stapleton, P., Sims, R., Blickheuser, K., & Church, D. (2019). Clinical eft (Emotional freedom techniques) improves multiple physiological markers of health. Journal of Evidence-Based Integrative Medicine, 24, 2515690X18823691. https://doi.org/10.1177/2515690X18823691))

Mindfulness-Based Treatments

Mindfulness helps with emotion regulation, ((Lee, M. Y., Eads, R., & Hoffman, J. (2022). “I felt it and i let it go”: Perspectives on meditation and emotional regulation among female survivors of interpersonal trauma with co-occurring disorders. Journal of Family Violence, 37(4), 629–641. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10896-021-00329-7)) which is a common issue for trauma survivors. This umbrella term refers to a variety of techniques. Some rehabs offer yoga classes, and others teach you how to meditate. But this approach isn’t right for everyone.

If you have a history of trauma, mindfulness can be triggering. As psychotherapist and trauma researcher David A. Treleaven writes, some patients find “meditation can actually end up exacerbating symptoms of traumatic stress.” ((SoP. (2018, January 28). Is mindfulness safe for trauma survivors? The Science of Psychotherapy. https://www.thescienceofpsychotherapy.com/is-mindfulness-safe-for-trauma-survivors/)) Researchers caution that mindfulness techniques can “destabilize clients who are particularly prone to flashbacks, ((Boyd, J. E., Lanius, R. A., & McKinnon, M. C. (2018). Mindfulness-based treatments for posttraumatic stress disorder: A review of the treatment literature and neurobiological evidence. Journal of Psychiatry & Neuroscience : JPN, 43(1), 7–25. https://doi.org/10.1503/jpn.170021
)) rumination, or easily triggered trauma memories.”

What works for you might trigger someone else. If you’d like to try healing through mindfulness, make sure to get professional support. These techniques aren’t right for everyone, but some patients find them extremely helpful.

Meditation

Data supports meditation as a treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). ((Talkovsky, A., & Lang, A. (2017). Meditation-based approaches in the treatment of ptsd. PTSD Research Quarterly, 28(2), 2–10. https://www.ptsd.va.gov/publications/rq_docs/V28N2.pdf
)) This spiritual practice also has physical health benefits.

Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)

According to experts in mindfulness at Brown University, MBCT “combines training in mindfulness meditation practices with principles from cognitive therapy.” ((What is mindfulness based cognitive therapy? | mindfulness center | brown university. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.brown.edu/public-health/mindfulness/ideas/what-mindfulness-based-cognitive-therapy)) Whether you attend 1:1 or group sessions of MBCT, ((Schroevers, M. J., Tovote, K. A., Snippe, E., & Fleer, J. (2016). Group and individual mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (Mbct) are both effective: A pilot randomized controlled trial in depressed people with a somatic disease. Mindfulness, 7(6), 1339–1346. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12671-016-0575-z)) your therapist will guide you through meditations and cognitive exercises. You may also have homework between sessions. MBCT can treat the symptoms of PTSD. ((Boyd, J. E., Lanius, R. A., & McKinnon, M. C. (2018). Mindfulness-based treatments for posttraumatic stress disorder: A review of the treatment literature and neurobiological evidence. Journal of Psychiatry & Neuroscience : JPN, 43(1), 7–25. https://doi.org/10.1503/jpn.170021
))

Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR)

In many ways, this therapy is similar to MBCT. For example, you’ll likely go through treatment with a group. But instead of using cognitive therapy, patients learn a wider variety of mindfulness techniques. After about 6 weeks of MBSR, patients go on a brief meditation retreat. ((Boyd, J. E., Lanius, R. A., & McKinnon, M. C. (2018). Mindfulness-based treatments for posttraumatic stress disorder: A review of the treatment literature and neurobiological evidence. Journal of Psychiatry & Neuroscience : JPN, 43(1), 7–25. https://doi.org/10.1503/jpn.170021)) Experts agree that these mindfulness exercises can relieve trauma symptoms. ((Khatib, L., Riegner, G., Dean, J. G., Oliva, V., Cruanes, G., Mulligan, B. A., & Zeidan, F. (2022). The effects of mindfulness-based stress reduction on trauma in victims of gun violence: A pilot study. Mindfulness, 13(4), 1032–1041. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12671-022-01858-yfOctober))

Non-Traditional Talk Therapy

Mindfulness teaches you to focus on the present moment. Other treatments help you understand the past. In some types of talk therapy, patients learn to live with traumatic events. You might describe or even re-experience your most difficult memories. The goal is not to trigger you, but to help you process what happened.

Psychodynamic Therapy

According to the American Psychological Association (APA), “psychodynamic therapy focuses on the psychological roots of emotional suffering.” ((Psychodynamic psychotherapy brings lasting benefits through self-knowledge. (n.d.). Https://Www.Apa.Org. Retrieved from https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/2010/01/psychodynamic-therapy)) Patients work closely with a therapist to get to the root of their symptoms. Short-term psychodynamic therapy ((Chapter 7—Brief psychodynamic therapy. (1999). Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (US). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK64952/)) includes a finite number of 1:1 sessions. Some therapists recommend a much longer treatment program. In that case, you’ll spend the first few sessions free associating, as your therapist gets to know you. Psychodynamic therapy can help with PTSD ((Schottenbauer, M. A., Glass, C. R., Arnkoff, D. B., & Gray, S. H. (2008). Contributions of psychodynamic approaches to treatment of PTSD and trauma: a review of the empirical treatment and psychopathology literature. Psychiatry, 71(1), 13–34. https://citeseerx.ist.psu.edu/viewdoc/download?doi=10.1.1.456.4171&rep=rep1&type=pdf)) and related conditions, including addiction.

Narrative Exposure Therapy (NET)

By telling your story, you can take control of it. During NET, patients tell the stories of their lives. ((Narrative exposure therapy(Net). (n.d.). Https://Www.Apa.Org. Retrieved from https://www.apa.org/ptsd-guideline/treatments/narrative-exposure-therapy)) You’ll focus on traumatic memories, and also talk about some positive ones. Your therapist guides you to re-experience painful emotions, but stay in touch with the present moment.

Inner Child Work

This treatment is just what it sounds like—recognizing that a version of your younger self lives on within you. There are countless ways to connect with your inner child. ((Healing trauma through inner child work | cptsdfoundation. Org. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://cptsdfoundation.org/2020/07/20/healing-trauma-through-inner-child-work/)) For example, you could write them a letter. You can also meditate, picture their face, and start a conversation. It can be especially helpful to ask them simple questions, like “how do you feel?” or “what do you need to feel safe?” This work can bring up repressed feelings and even memories. If you’re new to recovery, it’s best to embark on inner child work with a guide, like a therapist or other professional.

Creative Therapies

Talk therapy can be central to recovery. But it’s not the only way to heal. Creative pursuits help patients unlock deeper emotions and repressed memories. They can also help you release physical, emotional, and even spiritual pain. These therapies empower you to express yourself, working through trauma in the process.

Art Therapy

In art therapy, you’ll create visual art as a way of connecting with your feelings. Sessions may take place 1:1 or in a group setting. By sharing your creations with other people—including your therapist—you practice self-expression. If you enjoy making art, this can become a healthy coping mechanism in the long term. Art can also help you externalize traumatic memories, ((Campbell, M., Decker, K. P., Kruk, K., & Deaver, S. P. (2016). Art therapy and cognitive processing therapy for combat-related ptsd: A randomized controlled trial. Art Therapy : Journal of the American Art Therapy Association, 33(4), 169–177. https://doi.org/10.1080/07421656.2016.1226643)) making it easier to live with them.

Music Therapy

Music therapy can alleviate many symptoms of PTSD. ((Landis-Shack, N., Heinz, A. J., & Bonn-Miller, M. O. (2017). Music therapy for posttraumatic stress in adults: A theoretical review. Psychomusicology, 27(4), 334–342. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5744879/)) According to experts, it’s especially helpful for addressing “negative affect and mood alterations.” Because it has such an emotional impact, listening to or playing music may help you regulate your feelings. It can even help outside of therapy sessions. For example, listening to a happy song might help you calm down after being triggered.

Dance Movement Therapy

Experts write that dance therapy “enhances resilience” in trauma survivors. ((Martinec, R. (2018). Dance movement therapy in the wider concept of trauma rehabilitation. Journal of Trauma and Rehabilitation. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/327418865_Dance_Movement_Therapy_in_the_Wider_Concept_of_Trauma_Rehabilitation)) There are several reasons for this. For example, dance helps people feel whole by including the body in the process of emotional recovery. As a result, it may reduce dissociative symptoms for people with PTSD. Dance can also build up your confidence. This encourages patients to find joy in the process of healing.

Trauma Recovery on Your Own Terms

Living through trauma changes you. You probably won’t ever return to who you were before. But there’s always a way forward. Recovery is the process of finding the path that works best for you, and takes you exactly where you need to go. With the right kind of treatment, you can build a life you love. And you get to decide what that means.

Find out more about what happens in rehab for trauma recovery, including types of therapy, lengths of stay, housing, and pricing.

Reviewed by Rajnandini Rathod

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Naturopathic Medicine for Addiction Recovery

Naturopathy is a type of medicine based on the idea that the body can heal itself. Instead of just treating your symptoms, naturopaths teach you healthy, sustainable habits. For example, you might alter your diet, take supplements, or start working out. And over time, these gentle changes support your body’s natural impulse to be well. 

A naturopath’s job is to identify the obstacles to your health, and help you move past them. And in a rehab with naturopathic treatments, this can be an important part of addiction recovery. 

What Is Naturopathy?

Naturopathy is sometimes called an alternative medicine.1 According to the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians,2 these specialists are versed in “certain areas of study not covered in conventional medical school. At the same time, aspiring naturopathic doctors receive training in the same biomedical and diagnostic sciences as MDs.” Naturopaths with the right training can even work as primary care providers. 

By law, naturopaths are licensed differently in various locations.3 In the U.S., for instance, insurance only covers this type of treatment in certain states. If you want to try naturopathy, talk to your rehab, and your insurance provider, about your options. 

Treating Addiction With Naturopathy

Naturopathy is a clearly established practice, and not an umbrella term. Many rehabs combine this approach with complementary holistic treatments, like energy healing. And yes, these activities can be part of a naturopathic treatment plan. But you won’t always receive them from the same provider. 

Some rehabs take a naturopathic approach to every aspect of addiction recovery. Others combine naturopathy with more traditional therapies. Either way, most naturopathic doctors4 use similar techniques to help you start healing. 

Nutrition

Most naturopaths will assess your dietary habits, and may suggest changes. This can have a major impact on addiction recovery. Many drugs damage your digestive health.5 And every drug has unique effects. Your personal history will inform your course of treatment. A naturopath might recommend that you take supplements, or cut out certain foods.

Some facilities, like Maison Ila, may even suggest intermittent fasting. At this treatment center, you’ll consult with a naturopath to learn about nutrition. Your bespoke meal plan will then be based on their suggestions. Every menu includes local and seasonal ingredients, sourced from the lush French countryside. 

Ila Maison bedroom
Treatment at Maison Ila in France is tailored to each guest, including bespoke meal plans.

Hawaii Naturopathic Retreat also has a strong focus on nutrition. Clients may try one of several dietary plans, like therapeutic fasting, or a raw food diet. They also offer sugar-free and salt-free options. Each plan is “anti-inflammatory, high in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fiber.”6 The goal is to detoxify the body not only from drugs, but also from harmful chemicals. 

Naturopathic Medications

In many areas, licensed naturopaths can prescribe controlled substances.7 So in some programs, your naturopath may treat you using medication. And you might end up taking a well-known Western medication—or you might not. 

Naturopathic doctors can also prescribe botanical medicines to treat addiction.8 For example, some naturopaths use kratom, an herbal painkiller, for patients with opioid use disorder. Others, like the team at The Hermitage Centre, use naturopathy during initial detox. 

The Hermitage Centre patio
Detox regimens are highly-personalized at The Hermitage Centre in Gold Coast, Australia.

Homeopathy

Although it’s a distinct type of treatment, homeopathy is often used by naturopathic doctors.9 And in some ways, it’s very similar to botanical medicine. Homeopathic remedies10 are very small—sometimes microscopic—doses of natural plant extracts. These treatments are usually delivered in pill form. 

While some studies show that homeopathy can treat addiction,11 more research is needed. But if you’re curious about this approach, a naturopath can answer your questions. Rehabs like Le Center for Health and Wellness recommend homeopathy during rehab—but only with close supervision. 

IV Drip Therapy

Pills aren’t the only way to ingest medication. In some areas, naturopaths can legally prescribe IV drip therapy.12 In this controversial method, clients receive vitamins, minerals, and nutrients intravenously. Supporters say IV drip therapy can treat addiction and other mental health issues. But many disagree. 

Ather Ali, a doctor of naturopathic medicine and health researcher at the Yale School of Medicine, falls squarely in the middle. According to his research, IV therapy is a placebo.13 But it’s often an effective one. And “when your child falls down and scrapes their knee, you give them a kiss,” he told NPR. “There’s value in that.”

Manual Therapy

Manual therapy14 can refer to most hands-on healing modalities. Massage therapy, craniosacral therapy, and some physical therapy techniques fall into this category. If they have the right training, your naturopath might offer these treatments during rehab. Or, they might refer you to another specialist for complementary therapy. 

At The River Source, in Arizona, regular naturopathic massages help improve clients’ sleep patterns. These sessions help you let go of the physical and mental stress of recovery. 

The River Source
The River Source in Arizona City uses a holistic approach to treatment.

Exercise as Addiction Treatment

Most primary care providers recommend exercise.15 But, as one study found, few recommend specific types of exercise. This leaves patients wondering what to do next. Naturopathic doctors Jennifer Gibbons and Osemekhian Okojie write that people with their expertise  “are uniquely qualified” to give clients more guidance. “The training we receive in anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and biochemistry allows us to go beyond the general and broad fitness recommendations that one can find in an average health magazine,” they explain. 

At Hawaii Naturopathic Retreat, exercise is a big part of recovery. Clients go for walks, take yoga classes, and spend time at the gym. And with locations near Kealakekua Bay and Hilo Bay, “opportunities for self-guided exercise are almost limitless.”16 But even if you work out on your own, you’ll be following a treatment plan, tailored to help you recover. 

These activities affect more than your level of fitness. Researchers believe that exercise can also treat addiction.17 Preliminary studies show that working out helps normalize dopamine levels. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays a role in both addiction and the feeling of satisfaction.18 And regulating it can improve both your physical and mental well-being. 

Mental Health Recovery

Le Center Health Wellness Bellevue
A peek into Le Center for Health and Wellness, located in Bellevue, Washington.

Naturopathy doesn’t only heal the body; it also supports mental health. At Le Center for Health and Wellness, lifestyle counseling is an essential part of treatment. And clients at Birch Wellness Center can get naturopathic treatment for anxiety, depression, and stress.

This approach may look different from traditional talk therapy. And it may not be right for everyone. But you don’t necessarily have to choose. Some centers invite you to combine naturopathy with other forms of treatment. The goal is to help you heal as effectively as possible. And that means something different for each client. 

Naturopathy Clears the Path to Recovery

This branch of medicine is rooted in profound trust. Naturopaths don’t just treat your symptoms. They might not even diagnose a cause. Instead, their job is to support you in the natural process of healing. With fewer barriers, and more effective tools, you can take the lead in your recovery journey. And when you’re empowered to heal yourself, life becomes far more sustainable. 


To start planning your recovery, learn more about rehabs that offer naturopathic treatment, including their locations, insurance coverage, and complementary therapies.

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Successful Treatment, Despite Experiencing Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS)

So you’ve done the hard work of detoxing. But now you’re having trouble remembering details. Or, you’re even more anxious than you were when you first quit. These feelings can be overwhelming, and you might not understand why. For many people, there’s a simple answer.

Post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS) refers to a group of symptoms that continue long after you stop using drugs or alcohol. This condition can make it hard to focus on the work you’re doing in rehab. Thankfully, many rehab centers are prepared to treat PAWS. Talk to your providers, so they can help you manage your symptoms and avoid relapse.

What Is Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome?

PAWS, sometimes known as prolonged withdrawal syndrome, is a set of symptoms you experience after you’ve already gone through initial detox and withdrawal. ((Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS) | Semel institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.semel.ucla.edu/dual-diagnosis-program/News_and_Resources/PAWS)) It can last for weeks to years after you last use drugs.

Almost all drugs have the potential to cause this condition. And if you’re recovering from alcohol, benzos, or opioids, you’re more likely to experience PAWS. In fact, 90% of people recovering from opioid addiction and 75% of people recovering from alcohol or other drug addictions have post-acute symptoms.

The Symptoms of PAWS

While regular withdrawal symptoms are mental, physical, and emotional, PAWS symptoms are mainly psychological. It’s common to feel these effects of protracted withdrawal: ((Substance Abuse Treatment Advisory: Protracted Withdrawal. (2010). Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration Center for Substance Abuse Treatment.))

  • irritability
  • depression
  • difficulty concentrating
  • short-term memory issues
  • fatigue
  • sleep problems like insomnia
  • anxiety
  • decreased sex drive
  • mood swings
  • intense drug or alcohol cravings
  • physical complaints of pain without a cause

These symptoms are similar for most people, but some substances lead to specific issues. For instance, people recovering from marijuana addiction often have strange dreams. And recovering from a benzodiazepine addiction can trigger obsessive-compulsive disorder or schizophrenia.

If you have acute withdrawal symptoms, they’ll set in immediately after detox. Some people also experience PAWS after that, but it may not set right away. You might not even have symptoms until 1-2 months into abstinence. Those symptoms might ebb and flow over time, or be triggered by stressful events.

The Causes of PAWS

When you consistently overuse a substance for a long time, it can make long-lasting changes to brain function. Usually, those changes are in the emotional or behavioral control centers. ((Abuse, N. I. on D. (2022, March 22). Drugs, Brains, and Behavior: The Science of Addiction. National Institute on Drug Abuse. https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugs-brains-behavior-science-addiction/drugs-brain)) This explains why most PAWS symptoms are psychological.

How PAWS Affects Treatment

PAWS is frustrating at best. And at worst, it can interfere with your recovery. Data shows that PAWS is a common cause of relapse. ((Melemis, S. M. (2015). Relapse prevention and the five rules of recovery. The Yale Journal of Biology and Medicine, 88(3), 325–332. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4553654/))

Stressful events can be triggers, and starting residential treatment is stressful. It’s no wonder that PAWS can get worse when you arrive at rehab. In this early stage of recovery, patients’ ability to deal with stress is already reduced by recent substance abuse. Add in lack of sleep, mood swings, or increased anxiety, and it gets very difficult to stay focused on recovery.

In this phase of treatment, patients are still learning healthy coping skills.

PAWS can mirror the same feelings that lead to addiction.

If you used alcohol to deal with anxiety, then PAWS-related anxiety might be even harder to handle. Or, if you used benzos to sleep, insomnia caused by PAWS might trigger cravings.

These symptoms can lead to other mental health issues. For instance, PAWS might make you feel like you’re not making any progress. You might wonder why you’re still dealing with the lingering effects of your addiction long after you’ve stopped using. People with PAWS sometimes even “catastrophize their chances of recovery.” ((Melemis, S. M. (2015). Relapse prevention and the five rules of recovery. The Yale Journal of Biology and Medicine, 88(3), 325–332. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4553654/)) And these fears are valid. But with the right coping strategies, you can avoid relapse and recover from your addiction.

Plan for Success in Rehab

Recovery means more than quitting a substance. After detox, you’ll face the emotional issues that caused your addiction in the first place. It’s a lot for anyone to handle, even with professional support. And during early recovery, people are especially vulnerable to stress. (The Rebound Effect. (n.d.-a). Substance Misuse Prevention Newsletter: A Collection of Readings, 4(4). Thankfully, you can use certain techniques to manage that stress. And that’s the first step in healing from PAWS.

Come Prepared

You can prepare for PAWS even before you start detox. If you’re in inpatient treatment, you’ll be surrounded by experts who know how to help. If you’re not in rehab, you can talk to your doctor, therapist, or another healthcare provider. They’ll help you come up with a plan to manage ongoing symptoms. Then, if and when you’re triggered, you’ll already know what to do first.

Build Your Support System

Community support is vital to addiction recovery. ((Social support and stress as predictors of relapse in early recovery from alcohol and substance abuse—ProQuest. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.proquest.com/openview/89aae0f1bce52fe4e89b92a9caaa3bee/1?pq-origsite=gscholar&cbl=18750&diss=y)) In residential rehab, you can connect with other patients in the program. And outside a program, there are many different places to find support. Start by telling your therapist or doctor what symptoms you’re experiencing, so they can help you manage them. You can also attend group therapy or support groups to find peers going through the same thing.

Let your loved ones know how you’re feeling. Some symptoms, like mood swings or irritability, can put a strain on your relationships. By telling your support network about your symptoms, you’re offering them validation and support. In turn, that will help them support you.

Give Yourself Time Limits

A lot of people struggle with concentrating when they’re going through PAWS. And it can be frustrating to feel like you can’t focus. But there are several ways to work through this common symptom.

Instead of forcing yourself to concentrate, set a timer. Give yourself a limited amount of time to focus on one task. Start small. Limit yourself to 10 or 15 minutes, and then take a break. As your attention span improves, you can gradually increase the amount of time on the timer. Gradually increase the amount of time as you notice you’re able to concentrate for longer.

Keep Moving

Physical exercise can be a valuable part of addiction treatment. Staying active gives you a way to focus your excess energy. It also lets you practice new coping skills, which you can continue using in every stage of recovery. And best of all, the benefits of physical activity match up with some of the most common issues caused by PAWS.

Physical fitness improves both physical and mental health. ((CDC. (2022, June 16). Benefits of physical activity. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.)) Specifically, it helps people sleep, reduces anxiety and depression, and improves thinking and judgment skills. Keeping active can also help you manage your stress, which may help prevent flare-ups.

As effective as physical activity can be, it’s not right for everyone. If your body is still recovering from addiction, you might not be ready for strenuous exercise. That’s also true for people with chronic conditions, including chronic pain. It’s important to know your own limits. The better you understand your needs, the more easily you can meet them.

Learn Your Triggers

Because stressful events can intensify PAWS, managing stress can help you heal. Start by identifying stressful situations. In some cases, you can avoid these. If reality TV stresses you out, you can just change the channel. But it’s not always that simple. Sometimes, types of stress are unavoidable. For instance, talking about trauma in therapy can be stressful. But that doesn’t mean you should avoid it. Instead, prepare yourself before entering these situations. Rehab can help you grow coping skills you can use to face triggers.

Be Patient With Yourself

It can take anywhere from 6 to 24 months to recover from PAWS. ((Carty , B. (2016). Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome. University of Texas Health School of Biomedical Informatics. https://sbmi.uth.edu/heroes/documents/Post-Acute-Withdrawal.pdf?language_id=1)) Some people may find themselves dealing with it for years after that. Eventually, though, your symptoms will go away. Until then, be patient with your progress. Celebrate small wins. Some days may be more difficult than others, but every moment is another step forward. Treatment can also pave the way for a faster recovery—or just an easier one.

Treatment Options for PAWS

Coping strategies are essential, but they’re just one part of healing. You can also make use of more formal treatments to heal from PAWS. ((Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS) | Semel institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.semel.ucla.edu/dual-diagnosis-program/News_and_Resources/PAWS)) Talk to your care team to see which of these options fits into your recovery plan:

  • medications, such as acamprosate ((Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS) | Semel institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.semel.ucla.edu/dual-diagnosis-program/News_and_Resources/PAWS)) for recovery from alcohol addiction, or methadone ((Protracted Withdrawal.(2010). Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. https://store.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/d7/priv/sma10-4554.pdf)) for recovery from opioid use disorder
  • psychotherapy
  • behavioral therapy
  • group therapy sessions

Depending on your needs, these modalities may be a good fit in many stages of recovery. Because of this, they can help treat long-term symptoms of PAWS. Some treatments, like talk therapy, may even be helpful long after you complete inpatient rehab.

Managing PAWS Is a Step Toward Recovery

Early recovery can be overwhelming. Your life is changing rapidly—and so is your brain chemistry. PAWS symptoms can make it feel hard to keep up.

Remember that you set the pace of your recovery. There’s no external timeline you have to follow. By accepting your own symptoms, you can practice self-compassion and self-love. And that’s an important part of healing from addiction.

Don’t let PAWS get in the way of your recovery. Connect with an inpatient rehab center to learn about their treatment methods, onsite medical care, pricing, and more.

Reviewed by Rajnandini Rathod